Former UK Defence Secretary Sir Gavin Williamson sparked a heated debate in the Horn of Africa with his bold speech at Somaliland’s 35th independence anniversary celebrations. He openly advocated for the nation’s bid for international recognition while sharply criticizing the authorities in Mogadishu. Speaking on May 18th to a jubilant crowd celebrating Somaliland’s sovereignty restoration in 1991, Williamson abandoned diplomatic restraint and declared himself a “Somalilander.” He positioned the nation’s quest for statehood as a moral and strategic imperative, stating, “I am deeply privileged to call myself a Somalilander” to resounding applause. He also emphasized his responsibility to promote Somaliland’s cause globally, stating, “to make the arguments for this great nation, not just here in Somaliland, but right across the world.” Williamson’s strongest criticism was directed towards Somalia’s federal government, which he accused of attempting to undermine Somaliland’s achievements. He referred to them as a “terrorist regime” that works daily to suppress the freedoms and democratic progress built by Somalilanders. He also stated that this meant Somaliland must fight harder to defend its accomplishments. The British MP praised Somaliland for constructing a stable, democratic society largely through its own efforts despite limited international support. He highlighted the nation’s core strengths, including democratic resilience, freedom of speech in a volatile region, fairness and equality, and commitment to the rule of law. He also criticized the international community for being “blinded” to Somaliland’s progress, stating that the people of Somaliland built these institutions from the ground up. Williamson welcomed Israel’s recent decision to formally recognize Somaliland as a historic breakthrough, calling it “the first of many” and expressing optimism that more countries would follow suit. His speech coincided with the official launch of the Somaliland Independence Recognition Institution (IRI), a new body established to advance legal, historical, and diplomatic arguments for recognition. Williamson has been appointed chairman of the institute. In closing, Williamson made a personal commitment to Somaliland’s leadership, stating, “One thing I can pledge to you, Mr. President, is that I will continue to do everything I can to work tirelessly… to make sure that the beacon of light that is Somaliland continues to burn bright for generations ahead.” While his remarks have received strong support from Somalilanders, they have also drawn expected criticism from those who still dream of being part of Somalia. This highlights the growing momentum and controversy surrounding Somaliland’s long-standing push for sovereign recognition on the global stage.
